Today, the most advanced, flexible and widely accepted Web3D,
virtual world platforms are 'Second Life' (with over 15 million
'residents'), created by Linden Labs, and it's open source
equivalent: 'OSGRID', based on Opensim. These can be accessed
from most modern Windows or Mac computers, requiring nothing
more than a broadband connection. Most of the current virtual
Web3D environments can also be accessed whilst ‘on the go’ using
laptops or tablets and a wireless connection.
Beyond this, organisations are also turning to more advanced
platforms based on game engine technology such as Unity 3D which
enables one-click browser access to photorealistic environments.
Platforms based on WEBGL technology are also starting to emerge.